Woodward said: "I met Jonny in Newcastle to discuss how he's progressing.

"He hasnt played a competitive game since last December and is clearly not in a position to come back into the squad for the tour this summer.

"I'm looking forward to welcoming him back in the autumn."

England's other long-standing fly-half, Paul Grayson of Northampton Saints, has decided to retire from international rugby with immediate effect, confirming he will not be available for the tour.

Woodward discussed Grayson's decision with him on Wednesday.

He said: "I spoke with Paul earlier this week and fully understand and respect his decision to retire. He has been a wonderful presence on the pitch for England these past nine years and I hope to see him return in a coaching capacity in the future.

He has my full respect as a player and I wish him well for the future."

Grayson, who is 33 this month, made his decision in order to spend more time with his wife and three children.

"It's a big decision but I haven't had an uninterrupted summer for 10 years. I thought about stopping after the World Cup so it's been on my mind for a while.

"Once I'd made up my mind that was it and Charlie Hodgson and Olly Barkley are both fit and available to go on the tour if selected. It would be a tremendous opportunity for them.

"I've signed for another year as a player with Northampton so although coaching is something I enjoy and dipped my toe into a few years ago, I wont be looking at coaching for the moment."